Top Five Train Journeys Around the World
Rovos Rail
South Africa
At a Glance
Travel in a rare level of style and opulence
Head to the dining car for a luxurious high tea
Sit back and watch the ever changing landscape pass by
Off the train excursions are arranged
Suites are a combination of classic and modern fittings
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Best time to Visit
Good time to visit
Average time to visit
Year-round destination. The summers are generally warm and dry, while winters tend to be wet and cool, the rains brought on by fierce north westerly gales. Neither season experiences extremes of temperature, thanks to prevailing winds. Summer (Nov-Mar) is the hottest with temperatures 20-40°C. Mid season (Apr, May, Sep, Oct) temps between 10-30°C. Winter (from June- Aug) is the low season with temps 0-25°C.
Insider's View
Step out on to the observation deck to really get a feel for the vastness of the scenery.
Explore Matjiesfontein - a small colonial town, which time forgot, built in 1890 as a watering hole on the way to Kimberly during the diamond rush.
Step back in time - pack a good book, cards and travel backgammon to while away time as you travel through the stunning scenery.
Call us on to start planning your holiday to Rovos Rail or take a look at our itineraries to South Africa
Description
Rovos Rail is the ultimate way to experience the romance of a bygone era. Travel through South Africa in the beautifully refurbished train. Exquisite meals are eaten with a backdrop of stunning scenery as the train moves across the country.
Rovos Rail offers two beautifully rebuilt Classic trains, each carrying a maximum of 72 passengers who are accommodated in the most spacious and luxurious train suites in the world. The use of traditional furnishings and period décor ensure an atmosphere of elegance and grandeur in the Dining Lounge and Observation cars.
Rovos Rail was established in 1989 with the aim of recapturing the romance and atmosphere of a bygone era, when privileged travellers experienced the magic of Africa in a relaxed and elegant fashion.
The trains, which may be pulled by steam, diesel or electric locomotives at various stages of the journey, carry a maximum of 72 passengers in 36 suites.
Accommodation
Accommodation is in 36 suites all with air-conditioning offering the option of twin or spacious double beds. In the en-suite bathrooms, original fittings combine with the modern technology of hot showers, hair dryers and shaver plugs.
The Royal Suites, each of which take up half a carriage, are spacious and elegant. Each has its own private lounge area and full bathroom with Victorian bath and separate shower. The Deluxe Suites also accommodate two passengers in either twin or double beds and have a lounge area and en-suite bathroom with shower. The Pullman Suites are equipped with a comfortable sofa-seat during the day with a conversion to double or twin beds for the evening, and also have an en-suite bathroom with shower. There is a bar fridge filled with beverages of the passengers' choice and room service is available 24 hours a day.
Childcare
There are no specific child care facilities available but children are most welcome on board Rovos Rail.
Activities
There will be numerous off-train excursions arranged for your trip and these will depend on the route taken.
Reviews
Louisa Ross-Taylor (Staff)
Being married to a Scot when I mentioned that we are going to travel by train from Cape Town to Pretoria by train he was quite excited at bringing back childhood memories of the sleeper train between London and Edinburgh. However when he saw our deluxe cabin on Rovos Rail he was somewhat taken aback.... No pull down bunk beds, an ensuite bathroom with a shower and the food a considerable step up from the British Rail sandwich and shortbread biscuits.
It was wonderful to be able to relax and watch the vast open scenery open up as we travelled through the lush Cape dotted with carpets of spring flowers up onto the much more arid Karoo, dotted with remote sheep and castle farms - it really made us appreciate the size and space of South Africa.
Our stop at Matjiesfontein a small one horse town which was a watering hole between the Cape and the diamond mines at Kimberly, made us both appreciate the pioneering spirit and toughness of the early pioneers and seeing the carts which would have been pulled by oxen definitely made me appreciate the suspension of cars we have become spoilt by.
There is no Wifi or TV's on the train so it was wonderful to be able to completely switch off from the modern world and loose myself in a book and card games. our trip on Rovos Rail was a wonderful way to travel through some extra ordinary scenery in supreme comfort .... British Rail could learn a lot!!!!!!
Experiences
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2 Nights Rail Journey via Kimberley
The 2 nights railway journey between Pretoria and Cape Town (or vice versa) traverses through the atmospheric town of Kimberley.
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Abseil Table Mountain
From 1,000 metres above sea level, let us take you through a thrilling abseiling experience with breathtaking views, all while keeping your pulse racing!
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Bay Harbour Market - Hout Bay
Bay Harbour Market is situated on the water’s edge in an old fish factory in Hout Bay Harbour. The market boasts more than 100 stalls selling a huge variety of local produce from arts and crafts to fashion, jewellery and authentic South African food.
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Bike and Saddle Cycling Tours
What better way to experience the varied landscapes of the Cape Peninsula than by bike? Bike and Saddle has six routes ranging from a three hour tour around Cape Town, to a full day tour of the Cape Peninsula, there is something to suit everyone.
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Cable car trip to the peak of Table Mountain
Table Mountain, at 1086 metres above sea level, forms the impressive backdrop to Cape Town. An impressive natural landmark with a 3km flat plateau at the summit, a cable car trip to the top is the best way to experience its breathtaking views.
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Cape Peninsula - Active
Explore the Cape Peninsular with its local fishing villages and surfing beaches. Snorkel or stand up paddle board in rock pools near penguin colonies before venturing deep into the Peninsula reserve to discover the rich wildlife inhabiting this area.
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Cape Peninsula - Family
This guided day out is perfect for the whole family with treasure hunts in Kirstenbosch Gardens, fishing in Kalk Bay, stand up paddle boarding with penguins and game viewing in the Cape peninsula reserve.
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Cape Peninsula Essentials
Relish in the very best of Cape Peninsula, including the Cape of Good Hope, Hout Bay, Chapman's Peak Drive, a Funicular ride at Cape Point, Simon's Town and Kirtensbosch. Get acquainted with the penguins of Boulders beach and seals in Duiker Island.
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Cape Peninsula Essentials in Vintage Car
Relish in the very best of Cape Peninsula, including the Cape of Good Hope, Hout Bay, Chapman's Peak Drive, a Funicular ride at Cape Point, Simon's Town and Kirtensbosch. Get acquainted with the penguins of Boulders beach and seals in Duiker Island.
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Cape Town Essentials
Our specialist guide will take you through the highlights of Cape Town, including the Green Market Square, Grand Parade, City Hall, Castle of Good Hope, Slave Lodge, Company's Garden, District 6 and Bo-Kaap.
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Classic Car Hire in Cape Town
Hire a classic car for the day and cruise the beautiful winding coastal roads of the cape.
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Cycling in Devon Valley
This half-day trip allows you to take in the picturesque view of Devon Valley, working off the delicious calories from the region's famous four-course gourmet at Clos Malverne, paired with wine tastings at two award-winning estates.
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Dinner at La Colombe
La Colombe has relocated to the Silvermist Organic Wine Estate at the top of Constantia Nek. Enjoy sweeping views of the Constantia Valley and Hout Bay, and feast on head chef Scot Kirton's creations. Commonly called the best restaurant in Constantia.
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Dinner at The Greenhouse
Peter Tempelhoff, executive chef at The Greenhouse, stays on the cutting-edge of South African cuisine with ever-changing seasonal menus, showcasing contemporary cooking techniques and culinary styles.
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Dinner at Twelve Apostles Hotel
Enjoy a delightful dinner on the stunning terrace overlooking the picturesque Cape Town sunset over the ocean.
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District Six Museum
Discovery the heart-tugging history of the community evicted from District Six during the time of apartheid.
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Explore Long Street and Kloof Street
Explore the City Bowl area of Cape Town along the streets of Long and Kloof. Kloof Street runs downhill from the lower slopes of Table Mountain to merge with Long Street and descend to the Waterfront area.
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First Thursdays - Cape Town
On the first Thursday of every month explore the art galleries of Cape Town until late. Museums and cultural attractions open their doors and allow visitors to spend the evening discovering the rich culture of the city.
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Footsteps and township private tour
Discover the tumultuous history of South Africa with a guided walking tour around Cape Town, and meet some of the residents, with a chance to learn about how they come together to create a strong community in the city's townships.
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Full Day Cape Point Tour
Your driver will collect you and drive you down the west coast of the Cape Peninsula. He will introduce you to the geography and cultural history, culminating at the Cape itself. You will drive back via Boulders Beach to see the penguins.
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Full Day Cape Town and Table Mountain
A full-day tour visiting Table Mountain for unforgettable views, returning to the city through the Malay Quarter, and incorporating a two-hour walking tour stopping at many of the city’s most important landmarks.
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Great White Shark Cage Diving
Great white shark cage diving is an experience like no other. To get up close to the ocean's number one predator in its natural environment is a humbling experience you will never forget.
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Great White Shark Diving
Great white shark cage diving is an experience like no other. To get up close to the ocean's number one predator in its natural environment is a humbling experience you will never forget.
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Harley Davidson in Cape Town
Is there a cooler way to explore the Cape and wider South Africa than hiring a Harley-Davidson and winding your way along the coastal roads or through the mountainous Winelands?
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Helicopter Over the Cape Peninsula
Enjoy a dramatic aerial view of Table Mountain, Robben Island, V&A Waterfront, Hout Bay, Chapman's Peak Drive, Cape Point and Cape of Good Hope.
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High Tea at The Mount Nelson
Afternoon tea at The Mount Nelson hotel is a must do whilst staying in Cape Town. The Mount Nelson Hotel serves tea from 14.30 onwards, book for a vast variety of sandwiches, pastries, and loose-leaf teas.
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Hike or Climb Table Mountain
Why not do something a bit different during your stay in Cape Town, get outdoors and experience some of the best climbing and hiking in the world? Take a hike or rock climbing trip up Table Mountain whilst taking in the breathtaking views all around you.
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Hike Table Mountain: Table Top Circuit
The table top circuit of Table Mountain follows the easy circular footpaths for magnificent views of Cape Town and the surrounding natural landmarks.
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Horseriding on Noordhoek Beach
For a unique day out in Cape Town, take a horseback ride along the five-mile long, picturesque Noordhoek Beach. Noordhoek is the longest beach in Cape Town and has spectacular views of Table Mountain and the Chapman's Peak.
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Iziko Bo-Kaap Museum
View exhibits focusing on historical and comperary issues facing the Muslim community within the Cape area.
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Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden is acclaimed as one of the great botanic gardens of the world, and thought by many to be the most beautiful garden in Africa. Don't miss out on a visit to this magical treasure of Cape Town.
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Lunch & Cellar Tour at Durbanville Hills
A scenic route leads you to Durbanville Hills for a tour of their cellar and lunch at their open restaurant.
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Paragliding over Cape Town
For the adrenaline junky, paragliding over Cape Town is the ultimate way to witness incredible views of the city. Take off from Lions Head or Signal Hill and let your instructor do the flying while you sit back and simply take it all in.
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Penguins at Boulders Beach
There are few places on earth where you can enjoy an experience quite like this. Get up close to the breeding colony of penguins, share their little sandy beach and even paddle into the sea to swim with them.
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Private Scootour Experience - Table Mountain
Enjoy a bit of free-wheeling fun down the slopes of Table Mountain and Signal Hill with friends and family on a private Scootour during your visit to Cape Town.
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Robben Island Trip
A short ferry ride from the V and A Waterfront in Cape Town is the famous Robben Island, a cultural must-do when staying in Cape Town, this trip gives an insight into South Africa's difficult history, as well as brilliant views across Cape Towns harbour.
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Sandboarding & Quad Biking Adventure
Travel 45 minutes to the Atlantis white sand dunes for sandboarding, a lunch and a four-wheel quad biking.
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Seal Island
Seal Island, is a small island, around 200 meters in length and a 15-minute boat ride from Hout Bay. The island has become a breeding colony for around 6000 Cape Fur Seals and several operators offer daily trips to the island.
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Shopping on the V&A Waterfront
The V&A waterfront in Cape Town houses over 226 shops and is an excellent place to visit for evening entertainment, shopping, cafés, and al-fresco dining.
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South African Naval Museum
Step inside a submarine and see a collection of naval guns, uniforms and naval equipments.
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Sunset Cruise on Spirit of Victoria
Board a romantic sail boat or vessel while you sip a glass of sparkling wine with your loved ones.
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The Garden at Babylonstoren
Take the opportunity to explore the wonderful acres of Babylonstoren's gardens. Team up with the gardeners for a fun and interactive experience.
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Two Oceans Aquarium
In Two Oceans Aquarium, the famous marine wildlives of Cape Town truly comes alive with over 3,000 living sea animals on display.
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Uthando
Uthando South Africa is an award winning, international and innovative Non Profit and Fair Trade certified organisation which raises funds for community development projects in Cape Town and South Africa.
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Visit the dramatic Capes
The stunning cliff scenery surrounding Cape Town is part of the dramatic South African coastline. Visit the Cape of Good Hope and Cape Agulhas for the beautiful views across the Indian and Atlantic Oceans, that meet at the most southern tip of Africa.
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Walk in the Company's Garden
Set in the City Bowl area of Cape Town, a walk around the Company's Garden is an introduction to the very origins of the city itself. Originally established in 1647, the Dutch East India Company used this garden to re-supply its ships passing the Cape.
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Warrior Toy Museum
During your Cape Peninsula tour, make a stop at this unique museum with over 4,000 model cars, as well as 500 dolls and teddy bears.
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West Coast National Park
Surrounded by the Langebaan Lagoon, this pristine wetland offers exceptional bird life, spring flowers and white beaches.
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Whale watching on the Western Cape
Southern right whales visit the Western Cape from about June to December every year. These beautiful gentle giants congregate to the shores of Hermanus all the way along the coast line towards Plettenberg Bay.
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Wine Tasting along the Constantia Wine Route
South Africa is well known for its exquisite Winelands and Constantia was one of the first wine-producing areas in the western cape, dating back to the 1600s, spend a day visiting the areas famous vineyards as you take in the beautiful scenery.
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Woodstock, Bo-Kaap & Bree for the Foodie
From artisan coffee and craft beer to traditional food, chocolate and cheese, taste your way around the city as you explore the backstreets and secrets alleys where the locals like to go.
Holiday Ideas
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South Africa by Train
Victoria Falls, Rovos Rail & Cape Town
from £3500 pp inc flights & transfers for 9 nights
- Start your adventure with a bang as you dive into the adventure playground of Victoria Falls.
- Spend three nights in pure elegance on the Rovos Rail, passing the everchanging landscapes of southern Africa, and feel the thrill of a safari in the wilderness when you stop off at Hwange National Park.
- Delve into the heart of Cape Town and its tantalising foodie scene and admire the rugged coastline and panoramic views.
Location & directions
South Africa
Travel through South Africa, journeys include Cape Town, Victoria Falls, Durban, Namibia and Dar es Salaam.
How to get there
Most journeys on depart from Rovos Rail Station in Pretoria, which is a 11-hour 30-minute flight to Johannesburg followed by a 1-hour transfer.
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- Award-winning tour operator
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